Toyota has formally unveiled the GR Supra A90 Closing Version, a limited-production mannequin that marks the tip of the present Supra technology. With solely 300 models for Europe and Japan, this particular model receives substantial upgrades in energy, aerodynamics, and chassis dynamics. Nonetheless, its staggering price ticket of €142,800 in Germany is likely to be a troublesome tablet to swallow. Given its mechanical ties to BMW, significantly its use of the B58 turbocharged inline-six, comparisons to BMW’s personal efficiency lineup—together with the M240i and Z4 M40i—are inevitable.
The Closing Version is, at its core, an enhanced model of the usual GR Supra, that includes a extra highly effective iteration of the B58 engine, upgraded chassis parts, and an unique aerodynamic bundle. Toyota has tuned the three.0-liter inline-six to supply 429 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, making it essentially the most potent B58-equipped automobile from the manufacturing unit. Whereas this energy bump is spectacular, it raises an necessary query: Why didn’t Toyota go for BMW’s S58 engine as an alternative?
Why Not Utilizing the S58 BMW Engine?
The S58, BMW’s high-performance model of the three.0-liter inline-six, powers the M2, M3, and M4, delivering wherever from 460 to 560 horsepower relying on the mannequin. Provided that Toyota shares a technical partnership with BMW for the Supra, it could have been logical for the Closing Version to function the S58, which is a much more track-focused and succesful engine. As a substitute, Toyota determined to push the B58 to its limits relatively than introducing the M-division’s high-performance motor.
Toyota has strengthened the rear subframe with an aluminum mount impressed by the Supra GT4 race automobile, whereas KW adjustable suspension, stiffer stabilizer bars, and elevated damaging camber enhance dealing with. The Brembo braking system has additionally been upgraded, making certain higher stopping energy. The outside receives a extra aggressive aerodynamic bundle, together with a vented carbon fiber hood, an prolonged entrance splitter, canards, and a big swan-neck rear wing, all of which contribute to improved downforce and cooling. The automobile rides on staggered light-weight wheels, with 19-inch fronts and 20-inch rears, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Some Cool Upgrades Inside
Inside, the Closing Version is provided with carbon fiber Recaro bucket seats trimmed in pink Alcantara, complemented by pink seatbelts. The general cabin design reinforces the automobile’s track-focused intent, making it clear that this mannequin is aimed toward lovers who worth efficiency and exclusivity.
Whereas the Closing Version boasts significant upgrades, the pricing places it in direct competitors with extra highly effective and arguably extra refined efficiency automobiles. At €142,800 in Germany, it prices greater than a BMW M4 Competitors xDrive, which delivers 503 horsepower and a classy all-wheel-drive system. The Porsche 911 Carrera T, an icon of precision engineering, begins at €141,700. Even the Lotus Emira V6, considered one of many best-handling sports activities automobiles in its class, is considerably extra reasonably priced at round €99,900. In the meantime, the mechanically associated BMW Z4 M40i prices simply €70,200, making the Supra’s price ticket much more troublesome to justify.
Regardless of these considerations, the Closing Version stays a pretty proposition for collectors. With solely 300 models produced, it is going to doubtless change into a sought-after mannequin within the years to come back. The exclusivity, mixed with the Closing Version badge and distinctive efficiency enhancements, will enchantment to those that desire a piece of Toyota’s sports activities automobile legacy. [Photos: Toyota Newsroom]
